How to Sync My iTunes Library on 2 Macs

Share your iTunes Library with others on your network.

The Apple iTunes Home Sharing function is designed to sync, share or transfer your iTunes library between two Mac OS X computers. Authorized computers can be set up to transfer new items purchased from the iTunes Store automatically without the need for constant updating. Home Sharing requires that one user have an Apple ID, iTunes version 9 or later, and that both computers be connected to the same active Wi-Fi or Ethernet network. This process can also be used for a one-time library synchronization, if desired.

Things You'll Need

• Apple ID
• Active Wi-Fi or Ethernet Connection
• iTunes 9 or later

Instructions

1. Make sure both Mac OS X computers are connected to the same Internet network and have iTunes version 9 or later installed.

2. Open iTunes on the computer containing the files you want synced to the other and click the "Home Sharing" icon on the left side of the screen, under "Shared." If no "Home Sharing" icon appears, click the Advanced tab at the top of the screen and select "Turn on Home Sharing."

3. Enter your Apple ID and Password when prompted by the iTunes "Home Sharing" pop-up window and click "Create Home Share." If you don't have an Apple ID yet, click the "Need An Apple ID?" icon and follow the on-screen instructions.

4. Open iTunes on your second computer. Click the "Store" tab at the top of the screen and select "Authorize Computer." Enter the same Apple ID and password previously used, and press "Enter."

5. Click the "Advanced" tab at the top of your second computer's screen, and select "Turn on Home Sharing." Click the "Home Sharing" tab on the left side of the screen to view all the content on the first computer, organized into separate iTunes categories.

6. Click the "Edit" tab and select "Select All." Press the "Import" button in the lower-right corner of the screen to sync and import all content to your second computer.

7. Set up "Automatic Transfer" for future content bought from iTunes (excluding Audiobooks and Application updates) by clicking "Settings" in the bottom-right corner of the "Home Share" window. Choose which files to update automatically.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid duplicating content by clicking the "Show" button in the bottom-left corner of the "Home Share" screen and selecting "Items Not In My Library." This must be done before transferring files.

• Automatic transfers do not apply to Audiobooks, iTunes Store rentals or Audible.com purchases. These must be synced manually.

References

• Apple Support: Setting Up Home Sharing
• Apple Support: Moving iTunes Content

Resources

• Apple Support: iTunes